A general guide for varicose veins

Though we may all have heard of varicose veins before, it isn’t until you experience the symptoms that you’re likely to have paid much interest to understanding them. In this short guide we’ll be explaining what varicose veins are, whether and when you should seek treatment, your treatment options, as well as recovery after treatment.

Varicose Veins
varicose veins are large, visible, engorged looking veins which usually have a blue, purple, or reddish hue to them. Varicose veins are usually found on the legs.

Causes

There are many different factors which can contribute to the development of varicose veins, however the main factor is simply ageing. The veins in our hands and legs often have the tricky task of pumping blood uphill because of elevated pressure, and as a result, they are strained considerably more than other veins in the body. As we age, these veins become swollen and more prominent, and varicose veins can develop.

Another major factor in the development of varicose veins is pregnancy, or significant weight gain and loss.
Treatment
You should seek treatment for your varicose vein if it:

is painful

Changes colour significantly

Bleeds

Comes up in a rash or you develop ulcers

There are several treatment options available, among the most successful and common practices are Ablation, Sclerotherapy, and Phlebectomy. Ablation is a minimally invasive procedure using heat to seal close the damaged vein. Sclerotherapy is used for smaller varicose veins, whereby a small injection of liquid is used to reduce the local swelling. Often Sclerotherapy is assisted with use of ultrasound as a means of locating the damage.

A Phlebectomy is the primary treatment used for larger varicose veins. A Phlebectomy involves removing the vein through incisions made in the skin.
Recovery

Recovery for both minor and major treatments is usually fast, and without complication. These treatments are now very common and both kinds of treatment record exceptionally high rates of success with minor risks associated with them.